What is Pilates?
Exercises using special apparatus, designed to improve strength, flexibility, posture, and mental awareness.
Pilates History
Joseph Pilates, was born in Germany in 1883, was a frail sickly child suffering from many childhood illnesses. His determination to overcome these ailments led him to explore ways of improving and strengthening his health and body. Accomplishing this he went on to become an advanced gymnast, skier and diver.
During the latter part of the First World War, he served as an orderly in a hospital where he worked on wounded soldiers. He attached bed springs to the hospital beds to help support the patients' limbs, equipment now known as the 'Cadillac'. In the early 1920s, Joseph emigrated to the USA and then with his wife Clara, together they developed and taught his method in their 'body-conditioning gym' in New York.
Pilates and his wife went on to teach their method calling it 'Contrology" to other groups of teachers and students. He recognized the problems brought on by bad posture, poor breathing and lack of movement that lead to overall stagnate and poor health. Joseph created The Pilates Principles to target and condition the entire body, proper breathing, concentration, centering, control, precision and flow. The Pilates method is now being taught all over the world.
The Approach
"The mind, when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power." –J. Pilates
​
The Pilates Effect offers a contemporary approach to Pilates by following the STOTT PILATES® Method. STOTT PILATES® has created a modern approach to Pilates using the benefits of the original Pilates method that was taught by Joseph Pilates, along with a collaboration of physical therapists/physiotherapists, sports medicine, and exercise professionals.
Natural Emphasis
"Change happens through movement and movement heals."
–J. Pilates
​
This unique form of exercise was developed into a comprehensive, systematic, contemporary approach with an emphasis on the natural curvature of the spine. At The Pilates Effect, we specialize in a tailored Pilates program to meet the individual needs of all clients. We provide instruction on the Reformer, Tower, Chair, and Mat along with the benefits of other small equipment and props.
Fitness Goals
"If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old. If it is completely flexible at 60, you are young." –J. Pilates
​
Pilates is one of the healthiest forms of exercise and an avenue to a lifetime of fitness goals and maintenance.
At The Pilates Effect, we specialize in working with athletes, rehabilitation issues, back and shoulder pain, neck issues, spinal issues, shoulder instability, scoliosis issues, muscular imbalances and much more